Disqus - Latest Comments for Kristin

Re: What’s not working in your wardrobe?

Kristin — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:21:27 -0000

Disposable fashion. Cheap, synthetic fabrics do nothing for me, and I look and feel better in quality items - and I take better care of them, tend to be less clumsy, more in tune to what I'm doing during the day. I need to respect my body enough to clothe it in beautifully made, preferably organic items.

(Carrie: well chosen with the Trinny and Susannah books! They celebrate all shapes or woman, not just what the high street shops say should fit us.)

Re: In terms of Creativity, what are you attracted to?

Kristin — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:44:20 -0000

Otherness - places far away, and the lifestyles of those who live in these places. Travel and exploring to see how others define creativity, be it through architecture, a garden, clothing, or conventional art. Creativity should stimulate and question our boundaries.

Re: What’s your cheap beauty solution?

Kristin — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:20:30 -0000

Drink water. Loads of it. And smiling makes everyone look fabulous.

Re: What does it mean to be civilized?

Kristin — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 07:07:14 -0000

I'll second Angela...and add treating our environment, be it our homes, our offices, our breathing space, or our planet, with respect. Thinking of the consequences of our behavior and ensuring we are doing what we can to promote love and positivity.

Re: If you had an audience of a billion people, what would you say?

Kristin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:30:33 -0000

Consider the consequences of your actions. Does what you do promote understanding, positivity, and love? Does what you do cause others to suffer, feel inadequate, or hurt? Are you respecting the planet? Most importantly, are you respecting yourself by being the best person you can be?

Re: What’s the best business book you’ve read?

Kristin — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 05:27:07 -0000

The Mind Gym. Awesome ideas through challenging contexts. Uses the Web (much like Style Statement) to present similar ideas and continue the 'workout' long after the book is finished. I find myself returning to its pages when stuck in a rut. This book changed the way I approach about my thoughts, actions, and ideas, and has helped to balance my brain and believe in my competency.

Re: What’s the best business book you’ve read?

Kristin — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 17:41:32 -0000

That's their second book, subtitled "Give Me Time". I haven't read that yet - the first one, called "The Mind Gym: Wake Your Mind Up", is bright green with a dark green circle with the title in the middle. It's published by Little, Brown. I highly recommend it - happy reading!

Re: What do you know more about today than you did two weeks ago?

Kristin — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:17:28 -0000

Children. Friends stayed last week with a 5-year-old and a 9-month-old, and my admiration for mums and dads shot up to the heavens. Aside from the usual balancing act of relationship, work, travel, mother/fathering, and the self, this couple has raised two incredible kids - the 5-year-old was more polite and charming than most adults I meet. I tip my hat in humbleness to all mums and dads out there who are doing their best to raise our next generation.

Re: Friday Edition: Who would you be if you were freed from your past?

Kristin — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 04:34:19 -0000

I'm going to take this from a different angle. I moved abroad to disappear from my past, and have since accepted it for the things it has taught me. I'm not sure I'd want my past to disappear, as it has taught me how to be free of the constraints of who I was. I am a better person now than I was then. I recognise poor decisions before they're made. I take responsibility for where I am in life because, as mentioned above, it's not always about what others do to us, it's about how we react to it and, thus, how we transform our lives in the wake of circumstance.

Re: Friday Edition: Who would you be if you were freed from your past?

Kristin — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 04:38:21 -0000

Beautifully put. Self-acceptance is one of the most difficult and transforming ideas, and how wonderful it is to go through the bad things and come out a butterfly. And being grateful for the past means letting go and moving on.

Re: What will you say no to this week?

Kristin — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:09:27 -0000

As I work from home, I will say 'no' to procrastination and distractions. I need to ensure I say no to the small, irresponsible decisions I often make that can set me off course.

Re: When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Kristin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 06:09:12 -0000

An actress, a lounge singer, a tap dancer, and a writer. Writing and acting are quite similar, though creating characters is far more of a responsibility. I still karaoke whenever possible, and tap dance when I'm overly excited or trying to embarrass my fiance - does that count?

Re: In terms of celebrities, whose fashion sense do you admire?

Kristin — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 06:09:00 -0000

I second Carrie - old Hollywood, where it was all about class and understated sexiness. A sense of fun, a bewitching wink, and the confidence to pull it all off.

Re: What are you afraid of?

Kristin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 06:08:24 -0000

I've been struggling with being 'perfect' my whole life - the fear of imperfection, and thus losing friends, my partner, my future, has driven me for years. I'm getting better, but have to remind myself that this is an irrational fear. Losing this fear means gaining a better sense of self.

Re: What are you afraid of?

Kristin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:25:19 -0000

Why is that so difficult to realize? Nature, life, nothing is perfectly balanced, perfectly formed, and all things are richer because of this discrepancy, no matter how slight. Thank you for your comment - you're right. All we need is to be our own perfect, which embodies the small tweaks that make life real.

Re: What are you afraid of?

Kristin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:26:43 -0000

Oh! Such freedom on a swing! Glad you took that ride.

Re: What are you afraid of?

Kristin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:13:23 -0000

...and seeing it written out is the most powerful first step you can take. Relish in your upcoming therapy - counseling has saved many of us - and use this unique, hurtful experience to share with the world what only you can share. Good luck and good vibes to the Universe to help you heal.

Re: What are you afraid of?

Kristin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:17:46 -0000

But you ARE unique - only you see things through your eyes. Make a list of things that make you different, your experiences, travels, style, friends, relationships - those all make you worthy of a story. Just be true to yourself, tell the story you must tell the world, and be patient. Once you put yourself out there, the world will respond.

Re: What about yourself makes you enthusiastic?

Kristin — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 05:13:35 -0000

Learning, every day. Taking bits from all the lives I've led and twisting them into things that make me a better person. Giving others the support I would want myself. And using my knowledge to create grand things in my new career, knowing I deserve the success I envision if I use everything I've learned well.

Re: What are the tools of your trade?

Kristin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 06:50:45 -0000

My Mac. Memory. Moleskine notebooks. Vision. Pentel Precise Rolling Ball pens. My imagination. Patience with myself. The internet. Willpower. Organisation. Creativity. Intensity. Spellcheck. A thesaurus. Self-belief. Knowing when something's not working and letting it go. Dr Stewart's herbal teas. Storyboards. Guidebooks. Music. And the ability to take breaks for things that cleanse my spirit, like this website.

Re: What’s your best travel tip?

Kristin — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:12:12 -0000

An empty bottle to fill with water after security. Small blanket or pashmina for freezing planes - amazing how many have eliminated blankets recently. BeneFit's 'realness of concealness' kit. Time Out city guides, especially for Europe. An open, flexible mind. A bit of local knowledge - be it food, how to say 'please' and 'thank you', the religion, the customs. A willingness to get lost and enjoy the buzz of the discomfort of finding the self in a new place, or rediscovering the self in a familiar place that may have changed - and seeing these changes.

Re: What do you do to promote your own happiness?

Kristin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 07:11:23 -0000

What a wonderful question of the day!

Happiness is a choice. Putting love and respect and smiles out into the world comes back in so many delicious ways. Along with this, a bit of me-time each day, where I dive into a little selfish place without a twinge of guilt. And I agree with Gretchen and Carrie - a bit of daily bod-love, be it Pilates or broccoli or meditation, keeps the physical self in its happy place.

Re: What do you want to be thanked for?

Kristin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:13:20 -0000

To be appreciated for keeping the consistency within our home. And Carrie, I completely agree - and a 'My pleasure' works well, too.

Re: What do you want to be thanked for?

Kristin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:26:09 -0000

Another way to train: thank him when he does little things, like picks up after himself or sets the table or empties the rubbish bin. It's done wonders for my partner, who now goes out of his way to help out 'cause he knows it'll get him a wee snog. It's a twist on Ghandi's 'be the change you want to see in the world' quotation. ;)

Re: What is the sound of your voice?

Kristin — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 03:55:56 -0000

My voice sings. It's quieted down a bit, in pitch and volume, and slowed considerably since leaving America eight years ago. It's still learning that restraint and thoughtfulness should precede all noise. It knows that filling the world with voices isn't always necessary, and that silence can be more powerful than words.

Re: What are your favourite blogs or websites?

Kristin — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 05:00:28 -0000

www.deliciousdays.com - beautiful food
www.designspongeonline.com - beautiful design
www.ted.com - beautiful ideas

Re: What are you anticipating?

Kristin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:17:39 -0000

Signing away my first book. My wedding next summer to my dream guy. Meeting more new friends in my new city. Focusing as I begin new projects. Continuing my path to a better self. Finally receiving Style Statement (takes awhile from ordering to receiving in the UK) later this week and diving in at the weekend.

Re: What are you anticipating?

Kristin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:18:20 -0000

Embrace that positivity! You're right - if you feel it, it's coming...be ready to grab on with both hands. :)

Re: What are you anticipating?

Kristin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:09:02 -0000

Do it!!! Don't just say you want to write a book. Write a book. Twist your life around so you can find the time to get it done. Then rewrite it, maybe a few times, and when you feel it's the best you can do, put it out into the universe. Get a thick skin. Separate your writing from your self - it's easier to take rejection that way - and know that a 'no' is just one opinion. And don't stop believing in yourself and your potential. Good luck!

Re: What would be your last meal and with whom would you share it?

Kristin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 04:29:29 -0000

Starter: fresh, warm vegetable salad with gorgonzola. Main: Scottish salmon from a sustainable farm, long-stemmed broccoli, and the most gorgeously fluffy mashed potatoes ever created. Then perhaps I'd tuck into some proper Mexican food (it is the last meal, after all - health be damned!). Shared in small but lively party (preferably on a veranda at Lake Como) filled with my family and my best girls and rock-star guys. A last supper should be about the food, wine, and conversation - the sort of memories that, much like food, leave everyone satisfied but eager for more.

Re: What would be your last meal and with whom would you share it?

Kristin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:44:47 -0000

What a lovely thing to say! This is just such a wonderful website...love the varying views on life and how to live it. Thanks C&D for creating this. I received my SS book today (!!) after waiting AGES so can't wait to dive into it. Big love to you, Colette. :)

Re: How do you fall in love with the world?

Kristin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:09:41 -0000

This could be the best question yet! Jamie's on to something. Being in the moment, 100%, feeling my own breathing within the space I'm in, whether it be at the supermarket, beside my partner on the sofa, sipping a Cabernet, amid a weird pose in pilates class, catching a glimpse of the Highlands from the bedroom window, hearing children laugh, finishing a really good book - there is just so much magic in the world, and we owe the world to fall in love with its abundance. Gratitude for the world allows me to love it even more.

Re: What’s your favourite inspirational quote?

Kristin — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 04:51:53 -0000

"Each life is an encyclopedia, a library, an inventory of objects, a series of styles, and everything can be constantly stuffed and reordered in every way considerable." - Italo Calvino

Re: What are your favourite natural remedies?

Kristin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:13:10 -0000

Melatonin for sleep aid (especially before transatlantic flights)
Fennel or nettle tea for a midafternoon pick-me-up
Garlic and chili in everything!
Water - 2 litres a day, at least!
Hanging upside down for headaches (try it!)
Fruits and veggies whenever possible!

Re: What are your favourite natural remedies?

Kristin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:13:32 -0000

Great idea to write them down! I'll be doing that, too.

Re: What do you regret?

Kristin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:18:50 -0000

I'm with Danielle - regret doesn't really jive for me, as I can always twist it into some sort of lesson, even the whoppers. That said, I have spent far too much time expending energy brooding over, missing, or trying to psychoanalyze people (especially men). Clearing out the people who don't help me become my best self has been transformational.

Re: What is your biggest indulgence?

Kristin — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 05:29:35 -0000

Time. Taking the time to create, to breathe, to focus my intention; or to read, to travel, to love. Pilates class, the physical embodiment of a strong spiritual core. Selfish time to better the self feels quite indulgent - perhaps it should be a given, but that's another Q&A.

Re: What’s your favourite magazine?

Kristin — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:49:16 -0000

Ooh! So glad you mentioned these...have been into Red for years now (love it) and am getting into Psychologies - I enjoy the responsibility-based approach to self-help. I was into the UK Marie Claire for years as well, but haven't been finding it as good a read in the past year or so. Haven't read Eve in ages - need to pick it up again.

Re: What would you like to revolutionize?

Kristin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:47:37 -0000

American politics. (I know, HUGE thing to even fathom.) Medical care (abysmal currently), respect for the aged, education, the environment, the excess, especially waste - those are the biggies with me. Since moving to Europe I've realised the inadequacies of the American system, and the way things are continues to feed the ignorance to how good things could be. Huge props to those who are doing something about it - my cousin, who has run for office a few times; my brother, who works for a union; my mother, who was a teacher for 30+ years - those are the real heroes.

Re: What’s a great wedding gift to give?

Kristin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 19:15:01 -0000

I love giving a meal somewhere - if I can, to a restaurant at the honeymoon spot so they can enjoy a meal without considering the financial implications; if not, a meal at a fancy place in their hometown so they can celebrate upon their return. Moments often mean as much as physical items, and I've enjoyed receiving thank-you notes with mouth-watering details of their dinners!

Re: If you believed you were enough, what would you do differently?

Kristin — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 06:13:28 -0000

A brave and poignant posting, Dayna, and one that will strike a note for many of us. Thank you for articulating it so well.

Re: If you believed you were enough, what would you do differently?

Kristin — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 06:20:45 -0000

To continue in a similar vein to Dayna's - I'd stop aiming for the "X", pretending that life will be better once "X" happens. I try to do this - to be grateful and happy in the moment, to embrace the beauty of now - though it can be difficult when life doesn't go the way we want it to go (or think it should go!). I hope that we all see this question as a starting point to believing that we are, indeed, enough, and that we deserve to do things differently now.

Re: How do you want to feel today?

Kristin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:17:35 -0000

Brilliant, Caroline!

Re: How do you want to feel today?

Kristin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:19:29 -0000

You'll get over it...and feel stronger and better because of it. Luck and love to you.

Re: How do you want to feel today?

Kristin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:20:51 -0000

A beautiful question. Today here is nearly over, but I know now that I need balance. In my reactions to others, in my face to the world, in my inner self.

Re: What would you like your home to say about you?

Kristin — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 03:36:17 -0000

Come on in, sink into the sofa with a glass of wine or a cup of tea, and let's talk about whatever comes to mind, which is hopefully inspired by the music you hear, the art on our walls, our photographs, the view from our windows, the scents in the air. I want people to feel comfortable, cozy, and chilled-out, and hope that I can make it adjust to us as we change, travel, experience new things, create new projects. Home is so much about the feeling you get, the exploration of the senses. Remembering all of the senses creates a stunning impact.

Re: Peace, Design, and Creative Overdrive: An Interview with Design*Sponge Founder, Grace Bonney

Kristin — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 03:39:28 -0000

Excellent choice for an inspirational interview! Design*Sponge adds so much to my life, and I appreciate all the work Grace has done to bring beautiful concepts and ideas to the world.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 03:59:21 -0000

Have you tried Frownies? Google them - they are patches that smooth out the lines and have worked wonders on the frown line between my eyes. They're inexpensive and natural. Might be worth a try before injections.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 04:06:25 -0000

My biggest beauty dilemma is getting out of the headspace of comparison. I see the tall, naturally thin goddesses of the glossies and feel bad that I'm short, curvy and tend towards the 'cute' rather than 'gorgeous'. The path of physical self-acceptance and self-celebration is perhaps more difficult than any other aspect of self-actualization.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:38:26 -0000

I know! It's a long-running joke that I need a footstool to reach anything in my flat...and placing something above my eye level will mean it will never be found. I also love it when I first meet people and they sensitively blurt out, "Oh! You're so short!" or something similarly amusing. It took me many years to be okay with my height. That said, my pilates teacher is two inches shorter than I am and I feel like an awkward giant when I stand beside her! (By the way, she's grown nearly an inch after years of pilates exercises...!)

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:43:56 -0000

Have you ever tried Origins? Their Nightamins and white tea eye creams helped the skin around my mom's eyes which sound similar to yours. The chickas at the counter will give you free samples to try. Good luck!!

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:49:45 -0000

First of all, Ellen, props to bringing this up. Losing weight means redefining yourself as a thin person - and this is difficult. Many women in my family, along with close friends, have had such problems with losing weight and suddenly being treated differently. But being attractive does not necessarily mean you're treated as competition, or as a village idiot. If your personality and love of life shines, you are beautiful - heavy, thin, whatever. I sympathize with your dilemma - but if you're confident in yourself, you'll be fine, and healthy enough to enjoy an even longer life.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:53:07 -0000

Pilates! Pilates! (I can't praise this enough - it's done wonders to my thighs!)

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:54:23 -0000

So glad you touched on this! Gok is the best thing to happen to women in ages. I've cried my way through his shows and always feel better about womankind afterward - and hopeful that one day we stop the negative and see what Gok sees.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:55:30 -0000

Frownies! (mentioned above) - the patches WORK.

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 03:02:08 -0000

BE POSITIVE - take the first step by visualizing how you want to look, and you'll get there. It's all about inner beauty, anyway, and taking care of your spirit. Your physical self will follow. Good luck!!

Re: What’s your beauty dilemma?

Kristin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 03:05:36 -0000

I know, I love the name! They were recommended to me by a woman who owns a health food and alternative med shop in my hometown. I thought she was nuts, and soon realized that these things rock. Give them a week or two - make sure you massage the skin before putting them on. Now I only wear them a couple of times a week and I can really see the difference in photographs.

Re: The Goddess Experiment: 21 Days of Imagery

Kristin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 03:16:54 -0000

What a beautiful experiment, Carrie! I'm excited to see where it takes you! The first thing that comes to mind is Kevin Smith's "Dogma", with Alanis Morissette as God at the end of the film - a fabulous twist. Many Hindu gods are depicted as women as well, though I know far too little about this magical religion. Good luck with this - looking forward to the postings.

Re: The Goddess Experiment: 21 Days of Imagery

Kristin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 03:17:58 -0000

Sheepishly - sorry Danielle! It's far too early here in the UK and I wasn't reading properly.

Re: What’s your image of God?

Kristin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:03:16 -0000

Such a personal (and controversial!) Q&A. There are dozens of characteristics and other adjectives I associate with God, yet finding an image is difficult. I prefer to think of the spirit within all things - past, future, light, darkness, noise, scents, energy, emotions, ideas whirling together into this beautiful accident we're all experiencing. Most importantly, I believe in something that everyone experiences differently, and that none of us has the right to judge any other person for their personal image of God. I'm not sure we're supposed to know anything for sure; perhaps we're all just supposed to find our own path that makes sense in our own magical heads.

Re: What are your 3 top priorities this week?

Kristin — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:13:09 -0000

1. Meditate each morning to focus my intention.
2. Chase the muses with a net, forcing them to stay and play until I'm on the right track.
3. Settle myself and the flat after a month of overseas visitors, including beginning work on my Style Statement. (!!)

Re: What are your 3 top priorities this week?

Kristin — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 06:59:27 -0000

Liz - big love to you! The heart is the hardest part of the body to heal, but bruises fade.

Re: What are your 3 top priorities this week?

Kristin — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 09:38:34 -0000

Beautifully put.

Re: How has astrology influenced your life or a decision?

Kristin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:33:37 -0000

I find astrology fascinating, not least because it's been affecting people since the Bronze Age, longer than most world religions. Opening myself to my Libra tendencies has helped me deal with my personality - such as my intense need for balance, my hyper-sensitive nose, my choice to live abroad and my rare lashings of anger when things aren't fair, to name a few. Learning more about my rising sign and Chinese astrology sign (Ox, for me, which often contradicts Libra) has also helped in my self-assessment. Learning the signs of others can help to explain conflict, work ethics and ambition, and can help in relationship-building. My favourite weekly forecast is from Rob Brezsny: http://www.freewillastrology.com/horoscopes. Astrology is a wonderful tool to add to understanding, but not to take the place of responsibility.

Re: How has astrology influenced your life or a decision?

Kristin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:34:35 -0000

Did you know that all the Kristins I've met are Libras??! Strange... :)

Re: How has astrology influenced your life or a decision?

Kristin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:35:40 -0000

Alice - I just stalked your site, and what an amazing life you've led! Looking forward to more postings from you.

Re: How has astrology influenced your life or a decision?

Kristin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:50:03 -0000

I know! It's always the "IN" ending, not "EN".

Re: How would you spend your last $20?

Kristin — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 06:51:03 -0000

I'd save it, and find enough inspiration from things that are free - people-watching, wandering a new path, feeling the sun on my face - to create something new that would turn around my fortune.

Re: What would improve your work space?

Kristin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 06:23:18 -0000

More freedom to sprawl. I'm currently in a nook behind our kitchen/diner/lounge and would love a corkboard wall to tack up collages of inspiring and motivating ideas. And someone to whack me in the head when I stop focusing.

Re: What would improve your work space?

Kristin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:55:58 -0000

I had this same problem for a long time, and what finally cured it was a good old clear out. Three boxes: 1) Recycling/donations. 2) Might need someday. 3) Vital to my life. Taking the time (took me a week!) to get through all your files, collections, ten-year-old planners, etc. is both emotionally draining and cathartic. And box #2 is a saviour - it's a holding place for things you're not ready to get rid of yet, but don't need on a regular basis. The trick is to keep these things to one box that can be put elsewhere, then sorted through in a year, two years, whatever. Once you've got your space sorted out, make it yours so that you respect it enough to never let it get messy again. Good luck, Brenda! You can do this!

Re: What would improve your work space?

Kristin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:58:22 -0000

Do it! I once thumbtacked my cubicle with beautiful patterned papers, and it made such a difference to my mood. That's the coolest thing about cubicles - the ways creativity can transform them into stimulating workspaces.

Re: What would improve your work space?

Kristin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:00:34 -0000

Interesting musings on the color yellow. The feature wall in my office space is a mustard yellow, and though I loathed it when we moved in, it's now growing on me. Thank you for sharing. (Loving your furniture choices, by the way!)

Re: What would improve your work space?

Kristin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:03:32 -0000

There's an idea...corporate and small business Style Statements...Danielle? Carrie?

Re: What’s the best relationship advice you’ve ever given or received?

Kristin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 04:45:41 -0000

Years ago, while living in Prague, my sagacious friend S. and I were at a cafe discussing men. She said, rhetorically, "Why is it that we expect so much from our girlfriends and so little from our partners?" As a woman who thrived on unhealthy, energy-sucking relationships, this simple question was transformational for me.

Re: What kind of clutter is in your life?

Kristin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:14:02 -0000

Great interview, Erin!
Since I've moved three times in the past two years, my physical clutter is minimal. The things I've kept have special value. I also don't buy very often, and when I do it is for investment, not whimsy. Like Carrie, my mental clutter is more difficult to shift. As I work from home there's always a distraction, and if I can't overcome it I leave and work at a cafe or the library or similar.

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 06:27:55 -0000

I've got this awful 'little miss perfect' issue that flares up if I do something 'wrong' - like burning a pancake or forgetting to water the plants. I need to let go of the frustration I feel. No one is perfect, no one is supposed to be, and love and abundance in my life has nothing to do with how 'perfectly' I live.

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 06:29:53 -0000

Good for you, Deborah. Congratulations. Companionship will find you, when you're open to it, and until it does you can revel in the strength you have. Love vibes out to you!

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:33:51 -0000

I admire that you haven't settled for someone unworthy of you. I know so many women who've settled for unhealthy relationships because of their fear of being alone. The women in my life who I find most inspiring are those who are single or waited a long time before committing to someone. This time alone gives you the space to become yourself in your own skin, and the space to have stories to tell. It was when I found acceptance and gratitude for my life as a single person with my whole heart that I met my partner - and I don't think that was coincidence.

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:35:14 -0000

Make one! I did this years ago to help let go of an ex, and it worked wonders.

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:39:53 -0000

If they treat you like the goddess that you are, keep 'em both! Once they start downshifting...NEXT!

Re: What do you need to let go of?

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:45:35 -0000

Love that bod! Think about how it works. We breathe, ingest, consider, squeal, type, tap-dance - it's a miracle, actually. My partner sees people every day with medical issues, and his stories have transformed my body image. There's so much that can go wrong, and I am so grateful that things are still going right. It's a shame the world thinks in 'size x' because we're all so different in our bods - love yours, love its potential, and love that you wake up every day.

Re: The world you want to live in.

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:48:57 -0000

Awesome. I've got tears in my eyes. Thanks for sharing this. Scott is a rock star.

Re: Five technology resources for people who hate technology

Kristin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:54:27 -0000

Thanks for this, Daniel. I liked you already, but the fact that you dig the Guardian makes me like you even more. The Gadget Show in the UK is fab for explaining how a small apparatus can change your life. Their website includes their ratings and is pretty good. http://gadgetshow.five.tv/index.htm

Another good one: http://www.shinyshiny.tv/ - basically 'gadgets for girls' (no offense to the guys out there)

Re: What’s your favorite eco-friendly habit?

Kristin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:28:30 -0000

Not having a car and cycling where I have to go. This helps balance my consumption levels, too, especially at the supermarket - buy only what you can carry home. I'm with Connie - I see no reason for plastic shopping bags (nasty double-bagging practices especially!). Carrying around fold-up bags is easy and makes a huge impact.

Re: What’s your favorite eco-friendly habit?

Kristin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:11:58 -0000

That's a great idea to stick the scraps in the freezer! I don't have a garden but there's a community compost place nearby - was trying to think of a way to keep the scraps without smelling up the flat. Huge thanks, Yasmina!

Re: What’s your favorite eco-friendly habit?

Kristin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:13:35 -0000

Same with the greeting cards - I also cut off the front page of cards others send me and gluestick them on recycled card stock. Agreed, far more creative.

Re: What’s your favorite eco-friendly habit?

Kristin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:14:58 -0000

Congrats on the book, Linda! Best of luck with it!!

Re: The Opposite of Consumption: C&D Video Blog

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 04:27:13 -0000

This theme is recurrent in my life right now...that everything has a cost. It's making me think. Thanks for reminding me again.

Re: What promise did you keep that changed your life?

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 07:10:42 -0000

I grew up in a midwestern American city amid wheat fields and huge skies. From a young age, I wanted more. In my pink Hello Kitty diary, at age 6, I wrote that I want to wake up every day and be excited about where I am. I had no idea how profound these words would be, but since leaving high school 16 years ago I've lived in three US cities and five countries. I am so grateful for my inherent yearning to live among the discomfort and magic of far, far away.

Re: What promise did you keep that changed your life?

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 07:13:40 -0000

Love this, Kelli! Huge respect to you for getting out there and doing it! We only live once, and it's the buzz and the juicy bits that give us stories to tell. Best of luck with the new business, and since you've put it out there it's only a matter of time before everything falls into place. Big love to you.

Re: What promise did you keep that changed your life?

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:06:31 -0000

Loving Lisa's comment - If someone doesn't appreciate something I'm doing for them, it's permission to stop. That's HUGE. Isn't it shocking how people can suck the life out of us, taking and taking and taking without adding anything to our lives. And more shocking that we allow it for so long. "No" is so empowering, isn't it?

Re: What promise did you keep that changed your life?

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:25:20 -0000

You and I have been on similar paths, sister. ;)

Re: What promise did you keep that changed your life?

Kristin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:31:31 -0000

Joannie, my mother's recently become a Master Gardener and that in itself is a promise - you're cultivating something beautiful, and promising to make the world a more gloriously colorful, oxygen-filled, calming place. The volunteering you do as a Master Gardener is a promise that can't be discounted. And overcoming addiction is mammoth promise. And hugely admirable.

Re: What’s sacred to you?

Kristin — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 09:04:17 -0000

Energy. The healing energy of the outdoors; the buzz of a city; the power of music; the shimmy of being in the creative zone. The hints that energy can give about people, situations, time, places. Tapping into the energy of the universe is crucial to my creativity. Creating my own positive energy is crucial to my existence.

Re: What’s sacred to you?

Kristin — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 09:05:31 -0000

This is a beautiful response. Thank you, Scarlett.

Re: What’s your favorite gadget or piece of technology?

Kristin — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 05:06:15 -0000

Does "my suite of Apple products" count? If I had to choose one, it would be my MacBook Pro. Switching to Mac really does change your life.

Re: What’s your favorite gadget or piece of technology?

Kristin — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:17:18 -0000

Linda - great tip is to scour the Apple website for tutorials. They really break down the elements of each program and ease you into it, then gradually give you more skills to work with. Keep at it. I don't have an Apple store nearby either, but I often squeeze in a session or two when I travel to places that have Apple stores. The people who work there are usually more than happy to help deal with confusion.

Re: What’s your favorite easy thing to cook?

Kristin — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 06:16:03 -0000

Kraft Mac and Cheese is one of the foods I miss most from America! (and, of course, proper Mexican food.)

Re: What’s your favorite easy thing to cook?

Kristin — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 06:24:33 -0000

Garlic and onions in a pan with olive oil. Add courgettes, broccoli, tomatoes, whatever other veg you fancy, then some sliced-up salmon and spices. Great on its own or with rice, pasta or couscous. I'm a novice chef, but it seems that the quality of food and creative use of spices are biggest helps (or hindrances) to a good meal.

Re: What’s your favorite easy thing to cook?

Kristin — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:22:29 -0000

Sounds lovely! Mmmm...vinho verde...

Re: What adventure are you craving (or planning for)?

Kristin — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:39:30 -0000

Exploring more of the world. I'm embarrassed to say how poorly traveled I am, considering I've lived in Europe for so long. I crave the vibe of Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai; a service trip to Mozambique or Botswana; the spirit of Buenos Aires and Rio; the serenity of a retreat in India or Tibet. We're so lucky to live in a time when travel is not limited to the elite.

Re: This Labor Day, how would you change our work culture?

Kristin — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:20:32 -0000

C&D: Well put, sisters. To tie them together, male overtones in business must be softened. (A hard worker and shrewd businesswomen is a bitch. A woman who wants to take a few years out for motherhood can't get her job back. A woman who's up for a job shouldn't get it because she might have kids one day.) This is abhorrent behavior and should not be tolerated. And Europe has it right; four, five, six weeks' holiday a year, countless people working from home and help with child care costs. Finally, until universal health care is available in America, companies should be forced to provide substantial health care for ALL of their employees, not just white collar workers.

Re: What’s the best work you’ve ever done?

Kristin — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 03:46:28 -0000

Finishing my first novel last year. It's not my best work, but writing THE END after years of work was so liberating. I've wanted to be a 'writer' since I was a child, and I felt like I finally deserved this epithet. That simple shift has changed everything, from my confidence to my output, and I am so grateful for it.

Re: Sacred Time Management: Gettings Things Done With Structured Flow

Kristin — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 03:59:09 -0000

Fantastic wisdom, Danielle, especially for those of us who work from home. The first two, especially - we're always rushing, and being in the moment and being honest about the focus needed is so crucial. Thank you.

Re: Show Me The Money: 10 Things I learned from Millionaire Mind

Kristin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 05:08:14 -0000

Thank you for including this. It's so important to personify money, to have a relationship with it and not fear it. An excellent posting.

Re: What do you find sexy?

Kristin — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 05:23:05 -0000

Hilarious! I just read this to my fiance (who has this accent as he went to school there) and his cheeks went red! ;)

Re: What do you find sexy?

Kristin — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 05:27:58 -0000

I'm a couple of days late with this but what fab love is vibe-ing off of this page! Many responses are focused on the opposite sex - and I must say that though I am straight I certainly find women sexy, too. Either gender, when oozing with confidence, a good grin and a wicked sense of humor. And, like Danielle, traditional male chivalry is screaming for a snog.

Re: What do you need to move your vision forward?

Kristin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 06:35:14 -0000

Focus and visualization. The wisdom to realize when something isn't working and the gumption to change it. The nonstop flutter of muses.

Re: What do you need to move your vision forward?

Kristin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:52:14 -0000

First of all, congratulations! Good luck with the decision. Upheaval can be a good thing.

Re: What is your favorite fiction book?

Kristin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 03:54:12 -0000

Fiction is my favourite escape, so I'll base this on the books I re-read again and again - I tend to be an author-based reader. Though it's fictionalized, Hemingway's A Moveable Feast inspires me every time I read it. Runners up are: Gibran's "The Prophet" for its life lessons; Faulks "A Fool's Alphabet" for creativity; Diamant's The Red Tent for its glorious story; Kundera's The Unbearable Lightness of Being for its essence; Banks' The Crow Road for the setting and characters; The Great Gatsby and Catcher in the Rye for their simplicity; Superfudge for remembering my childhood. Fiction can change the soul, and that is a beautiful thing.

Re: What is something completely luxurious that you dream of owning?

Kristin — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:33:11 -0000

Please don't judge me for my (imaginary, luxurious) carbon footprint...but a Hawker Beechcraft King Air (with pilot, please) so I can fly to Portugal for the weekend or down to London for dinner with friends without messing around with airports. Clad in Prada and wearing Manolos, of course.

Re: What are you excited about right now?

Kristin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:09:09 -0000

Amen, sister! I'm excited to see how the world transforms its image of America when we have such an inspiring leader at the helm. I'm excited to see how some of America will have to adjust their thinking once he wins. ;)

Re: What are you excited about right now?

Kristin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:10:43 -0000

That's such a wonderful attitude to have - being excited about life is the best way to be.

Re: What are you excited about right now?

Kristin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 07:58:57 -0000

I'm excited about the book I'm working on, about finding my wedding dress yesterday, about getting over this flu bug that's had me down for a few days, about spending next week doing DIY. Life is about excitement. It serves as a lovely reminder of what it feels like to be alive.

Re: What are you excited about right now?

Kristin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:07:05 -0000

Keep thinking positive, Tammy. In Scotland, people love to speak with me about American politics right now; people stop me on the streets when they hear my accent. There has been a shift in perception here, and that in itself should be celebrated. That said, I've received emails from friends all over (14 countries, at last count) who are pleading to their American friends to vote with the world. Its humbling to know that I have a voice and the rest of the world does not.

Re: What are you excited about right now?

Kristin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:08:52 -0000

Getting laid off in 2001 was the best thing that ever happened to me. Embrace it, dive into your soul and take this as a sign. Congratulations!

Re: How do your actions manifest, and contradict, your beliefs?

Kristin — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 07:10:40 -0000

At one time, I had all sorts of opinions I would freely spew to anyone who would listen. I've since realized the flimsy nature of this sort of behaviour, and try to let my actions show my character. That said, I do struggle with finding compassion for the violent drug users of our town and the preteen mothers who, in Britain, have access to free birth control. I don't wear fur but do wear leather. I have no sympathy for any form of extremism, yet tend to keep quiet rather than argue with others about their views, whether religious, political or ethnic.

Re: What do you know the most about?

Kristin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 06:55:39 -0000

I know far too much about navigating European airports and discount airlines, and could plan a European holiday for any tastes. Otherwise I'm full of basically useless information that comes in handy at pub quizzes and at dinner parties.

Re: What do you know the most about?

Kristin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:28:48 -0000

Anytime, ladies! I (heart) trip planning. It's kinda like personal shopping, but with thousand-year-old monuments and buildings. ;)

Re: How do you know when a decision is “right” for you?

Kristin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 05:34:44 -0000

I concur, Alison and Danielle. I could spend an eternity dithering around a decision. Trusting the gut is the second step for me, however. I've first got to listen to my intuition and really hear what it's saying, not necessarily what I want it to say.

Re: How do you know when a decision is “right” for you?

Kristin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 05:37:27 -0000

This is a great point, Jody. I'm far more comfortable with this interpretation, perhaps because what's not right upsets my balance and equilibrium. I often interpret the wrong decision more clearly than the right one.

Re: What do you find beautiful about your body?

Kristin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:44:15 -0000

This is a beautiful question! Thank you, ladies!
I am grateful for my eyes, which change colour with what I wear, my curvy bod and my face (thank you Origins). And the person that's wrapped inside.

Re: What do you find beautiful about your body?

Kristin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:45:51 -0000

I saw a documentary about studies done in Japan (?) with water crystals and words in many languages - love, beauty, truth vs. negative words - and the results were similar. A fascinating way to see the power of words and intent.

Re: What do you find beautiful about your body?

Kristin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:46:51 -0000

I love that idea, Jennifer! Three things. Fantastic.

Re: How have you changed?

Kristin — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:16:47 -0000

I used to be a doormat. I let friends, acquaintances, boyfriends treat me however they wished, and I put up with some pretty abhorrent behaviour. I never thought I was good enough for anyone else, and I was so desperate to be liked. It's been a slow process, but I am grateful that I am now selective with the people I allow into my inner world. Realizing that not everyone has to be a 'friend' has been transformational for my self-image.

Re: Guy Kawasaki asks: If you could eliminate one activity from your day, what would it be?

Kristin — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:15:43 -0000

Cleaning, including all dishes, vacuuming and laundering.

Fab new site, ladies! Nice design and layout. (Launched on my birthday, so thanks for the pressie! :)

Re: Carrie & Danielle’s Evolved Men We Love List

Kristin — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:17:10 -0000

I'd have to add The Clooney for his work on Darfur and other African issues (and his villa in Como). And Jon Stewart for being the only reliable news source in America.

Re: Your opinion on : Madonna and us

Kristin — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:36:30 -0000

Age is mental. We are fortunate to have wealth of information available about healthy lifestyles, which leads to more energy and a more holistic self-image, causing us to feel better and, thus, perhaps 'younger'. This can be strangely and ironically juxtaposed with society's obsession with youth and anti-aging; our fear of being considered 'old' causes us to pursue things that promise to keep us young. As many have already mentioned, a curious, whimsical mind that is available for brainstorming any subject is the crucial element to keeping the spirit youthful.

Living life to the full means different things to different people; to use your example, Madonna has always pushed things, asked us to reconsider our prejudices. I respect her energy, her ability to stay relevant and her (seemingly) genuine love for her craft of entertaining. I look at her and hope I can have that sort of focus when I am her age.

I always think those who smile stay young, and those who laugh are the youngest spirits of them all. Thank you for this question. As it's my birthday this week, this is all the more relevant.